NYPD Seeks Public’s Help Identifying Suspect in Grand Larceny on M102 Bus in East Harlem

COLD AS ICE CROOK - Robs Older Woman Who Fell Inside an MTA Bus

By Staff Reporter 

Manhattan Voice 

February 6, 2026

NEW YORK, NY — That’s cold even by jaded New Yorker standards. Cops are looking for a man who robbed an older woman when she fell on the bus. As the woman tried to get up off the floor, instead of helping her the man snatched her cell phone and fled the bus, the NYPD said.

The incident occurred on Saturday, January 10, 2026, at approximately 10:20 a.m., while the bus was traveling through the East 109 Street and 3rd Avenue area.

Police say a 64-year-old woman was riding the M102 bus when she fell to the ground while the vehicle was in motion. As the victim was still on the floor of the bus, an unidentified male suspect approached her and forcibly snatched her cellphone from her hand.

After taking the phone, the suspect exited the bus while it was stopped near East 109 Street and 3 Avenue and fled westbound on East 109 Street, disappearing into the neighborhood. Authorities say the suspect escaped to parts unknown.

No injuries were reported as a result of the incident.

The NYPD has released surveillance images and a physical description in hopes that someone may recognize the individual.

The suspect is described as a male with a dark complexion and a small build. He was last seen wearing a black jacket, black hooded sweatshirt, black pants and black sneakers.

Police believe the individual shown in the released media may have information critical to the investigation.

Investigators from the NYPD 23 Precinct are actively working to identify the suspect involved in this East Harlem grand larceny case on public transportation.

Anyone who recognizes the individual or has information related to the incident is urged to contact the NYPD. Tips can be provided confidentially, and even small details may help move the investigation forward.

Incidents involving theft on public transportation remain a serious concern for riders across New York City. The NYPD continues to stress the importance of public awareness and community cooperation in identifying suspects and preventing future crimes on buses and subways.

Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to call the NYPD’s Crime Stoppers Hotline at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477) or for Spanish, 1-888-57-PISTA (74782). The public can also submit their tips by logging onto the Crime Stoppers website at https://crimestoppers.nypdonline.org/, on X @NYPDTips. 

All calls are confidential.